SECONDARY schools in Bexley are to be a pilot for a scheme to set up school cycling clubs.

Bexley has been chosen as one of two trial boroughs by Transport for London (TfL), which is funding the effort with £30,000.

The scheme is being launched initially with two schools, Bexley Business Academy in Thamesmead and Trinity School in Belvedere, through Bexley Council’s road safety team.

Talks are also being held with Erith School.

Once these are successfully up and running, road safety officers and the schools will put together an information pack for all the schools in London.

The academy launched its club with the help of Rolla Paluza a company which runs roller racing sessions.

Roller racing is where two or four cyclists sprint it out, side by side, on static bicycles strapped onto a set of fixed industrial weight rollers which turn as the cyclist pedals.

Each bike is wired up to a giant clock showing how well each cyclist is doing.

Thamesmead East Safer Neighbourhoods policing team were at the launch, security marking bikes and equipment and giving advice on security, and Trust Thamesmead is giving bike locks to all academy club members.

The Kit Room shop in Crayford is providing BBA Bike Club high visibility jackets and Wheelies cycle shop in Northumberland Heath will give a “Dr Bike” session.

New bikes and equipment will be provided for the Erith School club.

The aims of the clubs are to improve access to cycling, encourage students to cycle to school, teach cycling skills, improve health and make cycling a social activity in the borough.